OCTOBER 22, 2008 -- For service providers deploying fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) networks, 3M Communications Markets Division (search for 3M) today announced two new products that offer secure protection connections in outside plant FTTP networks, say company representatives. Designed to be re-enterable, the new compact 3M Fiber Dome Stubbed Terminal FDST 08 is hermetically sealed and can be deployed in aerial, buried above-grade, and buried below-grade applications.
The FDST 08 accommodates various drop termination methods, including four, six, or eight 3M External Cable Assembly Module (ECAM) FD Factory Terminated SC/APC or SC/UPC Fiber Drops. Because the drop cable is terminated inside the terminal, the potential for connector contamination is reduced.
The combination of a fixed O-ring sealing system and a latching mechanism within the terminal provides simple, easy terminal sealing and re-entry, 3M says. Re-entry allows easy access to clean and repair connectors and replace the terminal or terminal tail if either of these is damaged.
The FDST08 can be purchased with a factory-installed loopback qualification testing system, which allows for one-person qualification testing from the FDH to the terminal, which helps reduce costs to ensure that network service can be activated.
The ECAM FD is a factory-terminated drop with SC connectors on one or both ends, available in lengths ranging from 50 to 1000 feet (15 to 305 m). The innovative design of the ECAM FD fiber drop allows the SC connector to be replaced with a field assembled connector, thus allowing the drop cable to be salvaged if the SC connector is damaged, note company representatives. The ECAM FD is shipped with a pulling sock to protect the drop and to allow the drop to be pulled through trees and conduit.
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